What is the role of combat engineering?

The role of combat engineering is fundamentally about providing direct support to maneuvering land combat forces. This includes tasks such as constructing fortifications, laying mines, breaching obstacles, and assisting with mobility and counter-mobility operations. Such activities are critical in enhancing the operational capabilities of ground forces as they engage the enemy. Combat engineers also facilitate the movement of troops and equipment, ensuring that forces can advance, hold territory, or maneuver effectively on the battlefield.

While the other options describe important functions related to military operations, they do not encapsulate the core responsibility of combat engineering. Conducting air support missions pertains to aviation units, designing infrastructure for naval operations focuses on naval engineering, and creating geospatial data for planning relates to intelligence and reconnaissance efforts. Therefore, the correct choice underscores the primary function of combat engineers in a ground combat support role.